Document to Review & Download English Version: 2020-2021 NMS Start of School FAQ
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Document to Review & Download Spanish Version: 2020-2021 NMS Start of School FAQ Espanol
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Read the FAQ below.
Basic Start of Year Information
When does the 2020-2021 school year begin?
The 2020-2021 school year begins on Monday, August 31, 2020. This week will be slightly different from past years.
| BASD Middle Schools (BR, EH, NE, NI)
Week 1 Schedule |
||||
| Date | Cycle Day | Hybrid A-L | Hybrid M-Z | e-Classroom |
| Monday, 8/31 | None | 7th & 8th Grade @ Home
6th Grade Orientation 8:05am-10:05am |
7th & 8th Grade @ Home
6th Grade Orientation 1:05pm-3:05pm |
7th & 8th Grade @ Home
6th Grade Orientation By Last Name 8:05am-10:05am (A-L) Or 1:05pm-3:05pm (M-Z) E-Classroom Student Chromebook Pickup 12:00pm-3:00pm |
| Tuesday, 9/1 | Day 1/Odd Day | First Day of School @ School | @ Home | @ Home |
| Wednesday, 9/2 | Day 1/Odd Day | @ Home | First Day of School @ School | @ Home |
| Thursday, 9/3 | Day 2/Even Day | @ School | @ Home | @ Home |
| Friday,9/4 | Day 2/Even Day | @ Home | @ School | @ Home |
What does 6th Grade Orientation look like on Monday, August 31, 2020?
All 6th grade students in hybrid or e-Classroom are welcome to join us for 6th Grade Orientation. Student’s whose last names begin with A-L will attend between 8:05am to 10:05am. Student’s whose last names begin with M-Z will attend between 1:05pm to 3:05pm. Students should gather at the 6th Grade location at each school for arrival. Bus students will be picked up at their normal bus stops (A-L as listed on their bus passes & M-Z five hours later than on the bus passes ex. 7:45am becomes 12:45pm) and returned back to their bus stops after orientation. Students may also walk, ride their bikes, or get dropped off in the Main Parking Lot.
How will my child get their new BASD Chromebook?
Hybrid students will get their Chromebooks when they arrive at school for their first day. 6th grade students will exchange or get their new Chromebook during 6th Grade Orientation on Monday, August 31, 2020. 7th & 8th grade students will exchange their current BASD Chromebook when they first come to school on Tuesday, September 1, 2020 or Wednesday, September 2, 2020.
E-Classroom students will pick up their Chromebooks on Friday, August 28, 2020 between 12:00pm and 3:00pm through the bus channel. Students will also get their StudySync & Envision Math consumable workbooks at the same time. Watch for email directions from Nitschmann Middle School.
What times does school normally begin and end?
BASD Middle Schools begin at 8:05am and ends at 3:05pm.
How does my child know the cycle day?
The BASD middle schools will continue to use the six day cycle. However, Tuesdays & Wednesdays will be the odd days (1, 3, 5) and Thursdays & Fridays will be the even days (2, 4, 6). Mondays are always designated @ Home days for teachers to work with e-Classroom students, hold meetings, attend professional development and team meetings, and prepare for the week with colleagues. Students learn the cycle pattern quickly and it is always posted in our Sunday email to parents/guardians.
Where can I find the BASD calendar for days off from school?
You can find the BASD Academic calendar at the BASD website at this link.
Is child care provided for middle level students?
No. BASD Child Care is only provided for elementary age students.
When will I receive my child’s bus transportation information?
The BASD Transportation Department will send you information about your child’s pick-up and drop-off times directly by US Mail. This will include times & route information. Nitschmann Middle School does not provide transportation information.
What school supplies does my child need for the 2020-2021 school year?
The NMS School Supply List has been posted to our NMS Website. Click this link!
How do I read my child’s tentative schedule?
Information on how to read your child’s schedule has been posted to our NMS Website. Click this link! Please note your child will receive their most up-to-date schedule on the first day of school in homeroom.
Will my child receive a new student ID Card for 2020-2021?
Yes. A new BASD Student ID Card will be issued to every student in the hybrid schedule in homeroom on the first day they attend school for the 2020-2021 school year. This Student ID must be with the student during the school day. This is to be used for purchasing lunch, checking out library books, etc. We recommend leaving it in their bookbag each day.
Will my child go on any field trips this fall?
No. All BASD students will not participate in any field trips until the BASD makes a decision district-wide to permit any programs. This notification will come from your child’s principal.
Who do I contact if I have a question or concern with my child?
The first person to contact about concerns with your child is your child’s guidance counselor. Your child’s guidance counselor follows them throughout the three years of middle school. Our guidance counselors are listed below. Mr. Horlick, our Assistant Principal, coordinates and supervises our counselors in the Student Services Office.
| Nitschmann Middle School Student Services Guidance Department | ||
| 2020-2021 Grade | Name | |
| 6th Grade (Class of 2023) | Mrs. Kelly Hipp | khipp@basdschools.org |
| 7th Grade (Class of 2022) | Mrs. Natalie Stewart | nstewart@basdschools.org |
| 8th Grade (Class of 2021) | Mr. Bruce Kehler | bkehler@basdschools.org |
How do I get in contact with my child’s team of teachers?
Email is always the best option to contacting your child’s teachers. Each child at Nitschmann Middle School is assigned to a team of teachers, based on grade level. Your child will have all core classes & homeroom with these teachers. Your child will also have encore teachers for special courses throughout the year. Contact your child’s team leader for help! In addition, your child’s LEAD teacher can assist you and stays the same all through middle school, just like your child’s guidance counselor.
| Nitschmann Middle School Core Team Leaders | ||
| Team & Grade Level | Name | |
| 6th Grade Team Lafayette | Mrs. Hackman | dhackman@basdschools.org |
| 6th Grade Team Lehigh | Mrs. Oliver | joliver@basdschools.org |
| 6th Grade Team Moravian | Mrs. Roufakis | eroufakis@basdschools.org |
| 7th Grade Team Kutztown | Mr. Falteich | cfalteich@basdschools.org |
| 7th Grade Team Penn State | Mrs. Getz | jgetz@basdschools.org |
| 8th Grade Team DeSales | Mrs. Pogue | spogue@basdschools.org |
| 8th Grade Team Northampton | Mrs. Hood | thood@basdschools.org |
HYBRID SCHEDULE:
When my child is @ School, what time does school begin & end?
For @ School days, school begins at 8:05am and ends at 3:05pm.
When my child is @ Home, what time does school begin & end?
For @ Home days, homeroom will begin at 8:15am on the Zoom link from your child’s homeroom teacher.
What will school look like on an @ School day?
The day will look like a normal school day, with half of the normal number of students, enhanced clearing procedures, adjusted transition/lunch/PE procedures, and no use of lockers.
What will school look like on Mondays for the @ Home day?
This information will be updated shortly.
What will school look like on the days (TU/TH or WE/FR) for the @ Home day?
Students should be prepared to be on Zoom at 8:15am for homeroom. The day your child will be @ Home will look like the following:
| BASD Middle School Synchronous Courses on TU/WE/TH/FR for Hybrid @ Home | |||
| Time Period | 6th Grade Course | 7th Grade Course | 8th Grade Course |
| 8:15am-8:30am | Homeroom | Homeroom | Homeroom |
| 8:30am-as needed | Complete Assignments in Schoology | Complete Assignments in Schoology | Complete Assignments in Schoology |
What classes will my child participate in under the hybrid schedule?
At each grade level, your child will participate in all four core courses (English, Math, Science, and Social Studies) and encore courses (Health/Physical Education, World Languages, Art/Music/Integrated Art or Music/Engineering/Technology/Family Consumer Science). This is the normal course load for BASD middle school students from previous school years.
Why are children not permitted to use their lockers?
Lockers will not be in use to start the 2020-2021 school year to reduce contact with other students in the hallways. Getting things from lockers in the hallway can slow down the transition to classes and bring students into very close contact. Students will carry their personal items in their bookbags. As we approach the winter months, administration will review this procedure change.
What if my child forgets something at home?
This is never an easy question to answer. We understand the occasional item to drop off for students (ex. Forgotten lunch, etc.), but your child’s counselor will address it with your child when it becomes frequent. Please email your child (not text) and let your child know it is in the office to be picked up. Your child’s guidance counselor will contact them too. If your child forgets their lunch money, please do not drop it off. Please post it on their online account or send with your child the next day.
e-CLASSROOM SCHEDULE:
What can I expect my child to do on Mondays?
This information will be updated shortly.
What can I expect my child to do on Tuesdays through Fridays?
Your child will check in with their homeroom on school days at 8:15am on Zoom. Then, your child will work independently on their assignments throughout the day. Schoology will be the learning management system used by our teachers to post work. Classes will not be live-streamed to e-Classroom students.
What classes will my child participate in under the e-Classroom schedule?
At each grade level, your child will participate in all four core courses (English, Math, Science, and Social Studies) and encore courses (Health/Physical Education, World Languages, Art/Music/Integrated Art or Music/Engineering/Technology/Family Consumer Science). This is the normal course load from previous school years and no different from the hybrid schedule courses.
What if my child needs help with their assignments?
Your child will email their teacher or message them through Schoology for assistance. Please remember that teachers are teaching their live classes @ School on Tuesdays through Fridays, so they will return emails or messages within 24 hours.
What if my child has an IEP, GIEP, or Chapter 15/504 plan?
Your child’s case manager will connect with them throughout the week to provide assistance and support. IEP’s are usually managed by the teacher assigned to your child in their Academic Support class. GIEPs are managed by Mr. Sukanick (psukanick@basdschools.org). 504/Chapter 15 plans are managed by your child’s grade level Guidance Counselor (see above).
When are my child’s assignments due to their teacher?
Your child’s teacher for each course will communicate the due date for assignments throughout the week and post them to Schoology. Assignments may be due to the teacher for grading throughout the week. They will not be due weekly like during the Spring of 2020.
What if my child wants to switch back to the hybrid schedule?
You will email your child’s principal to coordinate your child’s return to the hybrid schedule. There will be a short delay, up to two weeks, which may be needed to coordinate systems for your child’s return.
Attendance
Will daily attendance be tracked for my child during the 2020-2021 school year?
A Yes. This is required by PA State law.
How will attendance be calculated for my child in the hybrid schedule?
This information will be updated shortly.
How will attendance be calculated for my child in the e-Classroom schedule?
This information will be updated shortly.
How do I submit absence or doctor’s notes for my child?
A This process remains the same from past years. The preferred method is to submit your child’s sick note by email to ni-attendance@basdschools.org, as long as the email on your child’s account matches the email address. Please note: If you are submitting a written or doctor’s note do not submit an email. It should be one or the other. Please email Mrs. Falcone at mfalcone@basdschools.org with any questions or concerns. Please note that this is ONLY for sick notes, not for early release or any other questions!
BASD Chromebooks
Will my child be issued a BASD Chromebook?
Yes. All students in the hybrid or e-Classroom schedule will be issued a BASD Chromebook during the first week of school.
What is the expectation for my child and their BASD Chromebook?
Your child is expected to bring the Chromebook charged and ready for school each day. This is the same as coming to school with pencils and books. Your child should store their Chromebook in their bookbag daily. Your child will use their Chromebook daily in classes and at home.
What model is the BASD Chromebook?
The BASD Chromebook for 2020-2021 is the 11.6″ Lenovo 500E series 2-in-1 Chromebook Laptop, 2nd generation.
How does my child access the Internet?
Your child uses the BASD WiFi network while at school. Your child’s Chromebook will work with your WiFi network at home when your child selects your home network and enters the password.
What do I do if I do not have WiFi at home?
Your can look at resources on our BASD website at https://www.basdschools.org/reopening for resources with RCN or Service Electric to access the Internet in your home. In addition, the BASD has a limited supply of WiFi hotspots, available from your school. Contact your principal for more information.
Can my child decorate their BASD Chromebook with a case or cover?
Students may purchase a Chromebook case to protect it themselves. When a case is used, a student may put stickers, etc, on the case. Nothing may be placed on the actual Chromebook without a case. Cases can be found online at Amazon.com or at some local stores.
Does the BASD monitor my child’s use of the Chromebook?
Yes. Our web-filter works whenever the Chromebook is in use. In addition, all content is viewable by administrators through our Go Guardian system, which alerts administrators to inappropriate content. It is important for students to remember that all use of the Chromebook is monitored and subject to the BASD Acceptable Use Policy. You can find more information about GoGuardian at this link.
What if my child has a problem with their Chromebook when @ Home?
Any BASD students needing Chromebook or Technology Help should fill out this form https://forms.gle/ZJE6SJNaX6RSSd927 Once submitted, a BASD Information Services Department team member will contact you via email (the email will come from “ISD Service Desk”). The Service Desk will then help you resolve the issue at home or direct you to go to your middle school to pick up the needed supplies or return it when your child is at school.
Schoolwork & Grades
Where do students keep their schoolwork organized?
All BASD middle school students use Schoology, an online learning management system. Students use their BASD login & password, issued by the district, to access this system. Schoology has a page for each of their courses and a messaging system to communicate with teachers. Students submit their school work through Schoology and monitor their grades.
Can parents/guardians use Schoology?
Yes! Parents/guardians can use Schoology to see student progress and check grades. You use your BASD issued login & password to access this system. The BASD login & password is mailed to each parent/guardian each August. This does not change year to year. The login and password works with all of your children in grades 6-12. If you do not have your login and password, please contact your school’s secretary for information. All student grades are posted to Schoology.
To Use the Schoology Website…..
Make sure to:
1) Go to the website https://app.schoology.com/login
2) Enter your username as BASD USERNAME
3) Enter your password as BASD PASSWORD
4) Select “Bethlehem Area School District” (has a green arrow) as the school.
5) Click Login.
Resource Link: https://support.schoology.com/hc/en-us/articles/201000833-Home-Page-Parents-
Does Schoology have a smartphone app?
Yes! You can monitor this on your smartphone.
To Use the Schoology App…..
Make sure to:
1) Go to the Schoology App.
2) Click Continue.
3) Enter your username as your email on file with BASD (Don’t have it on file? Call your school!)
4) Enter your password as BASD PASSWORD
5) Click Login.
What if my Schoology login and password is not working? Can I reset it?
No. You can not reset your BASD login and password. Email one of our Student Service Secretaries Mrs. Falcone (mfalcone@basdschools.org) or Mrs. Scott (sscott@basdschools.org) for assistance. They will email your information once they confirm your identity.
What if I want to check my child’s attendance, report cards, or discipline referrals?
Parents and guardians should use the BASD Home Access Center, the master warehouse for all of this information. You use your BASD-issued login and password to access your account for all of your children K-12.
To Use the Home Access Center (HAC) Website
1) Go to the website https://homeaccess.beth.k12.pa.us/HomeAccess/Account/LogOn?ReturnUrl=%2fhomeaccess
2) Enter your username as BASD USERNAME
3) Enter your password as BASD PASSWORD
What will the grading system be for the 2020-2021 school year for English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and World Languages (Grades 7 & 8)?
The BASD middle schools will return to the normal grading system for the 2020-2021 school year. Pass/Fail grades will not be used.
| A+ | 97%-100% | A | 93%-96% | A- | 90%-92% |
| B+ | 87%-89% | B | 83%-86% | B- | 80%-82% |
| C+ | 77%-79% | C | 73%-76% | C- | 70%-72% |
| F | 69% and below | ||||
What will the grading system be for the 2020-2021 school year for Encore courses, LEAD, and Exploratory World Language (6th Only)?
The BASD middle schools will return to the normal grading system for the 2020-2021 school year. Pass/Fail grades will not be used.
| O | Outstanding |
| S | Satisfactory |
| N | Needs Improvement |
When will report cards be issued?
Report cards will be issued in accordance with the approved BASD Academic calendar at the BASD website at this link.
Will children be able to use the computer labs, engineering equipment, music keyboards and other common equipment?
Yes. Common classroom equipment will be cleaned and sanitized between student use by students.
Will children be able to use the computer labs, engineering equipment, music keyboards and other common equipment?
Yes. Common classroom equipment will be cleaned and sanitized between student use by students prior and after use.
Dining Services & Lunches
How long is the lunch period?
The lunch period at the middle schools is 30 minutes.
How does my child pay for lunch?
For the safety of students and staff, and to prevent the spread of COVID-19, BASD is implementing touchless and cashless transactions for Dining Services for the 2020-2021 school year as part of the reopening plan. Touchless Transaction means that students will be required to scan their BASD Student ID card at the register to access their account. Pin pads will no longer be used to access student accounts. Immediate deposits (cash and checks) will not be accepted by the lunch cashier. Funds may be added to cafeteria accounts in the following ways:
- Online at schoolcafe.com
- Mail a check (include student name and ID) payable to “BASD Dining Services” to: BASD Dining Services 1170 Fernwood Street Bethlehem, PA 18018
- Place cash or check payable to “BASD Dining Services” in an envelope clearly labeled with student first name, last name and ID number. The labeled envelope may then be handed to a Dining Services team member at breakfast. Elementary students may hand the envelope to their teacher. Cash or check that is not in a labeled envelope will not be accepted.
For questions regarding student accounts, visit online at https://www.basdschools.org/dining or contact us at crosado@basdschools.org or (610) 861-8135.
How will students be seated at lunch?
To reduce the transmission of COVID-19 during the lunch period, inside tables have reduced seating. Students will be permitted to sit in the following locations: Main Cafeteria, Large Group Room, Outside Patio, Grassy area painted circles behind school. Students may bring a towel & keep in their book bag if they want to sit in the grass. Students will not be permitted to carry blankets throughout the school day.
How will students be seated at lunch on rainy or cold days?
The Auxiliary Gymnasium will be opened as a secondary lunch location. Students may be directed by their teachers to report there for lunch. The Auxiliary Gymnasium has food lines and restrooms for students, just like the cafeteria.
How will students purchase lunch?
The food service lines have been streamlined to reduce time in the cafeteria. Two or three options will be available to students in self-service to-go containers with individual condiments. Students will use their ID card to swipe through the registers and move to their seats. The process has been streamlined to keep students out of their seats to a minimum.
Will the snack stand be open?
No. Only the main lines will be open.
Can my child pack their lunch?
Yes. Students may use a brown bag or a personal lunch box to carry their lunch.
Who supervises lunch to make sure students are following the rules?
There are several faculty & staff members assigned to each lunch period.
What if my child takes medication at lunch?
Students will be permitted to report to the Nurse’s Room as normal for medication. Students are not permitted to carry medication in school, except for emergency medications such as Epi-Pens and rescue inhalers, with permission from the nurse.
Will meals be distributed to students on the hybrid schedule (2 @ School, 3 @ Home)?
Yes. Food distribution will occur weekly on Mondays at the 4 BASD middle schools when school is in session between 10am and 11:30am. Meals will not be distributed on Mondays that school is closed for in-service or holidays.
Regardless of which school the student attends, students or families can stop at any of the locations listed above to pick-up student meals. Each breakfast and each lunch kit will contain 3 days’ worth of meals. One breakfast and lunch kit is permitted per student.
Meals will be distributed at the following locations between 10:00am and 11:30am on Mondays when school is in session*:
- Broughal
- East Hills
- Nitschmann
- Northeast
- Clearview
- Donegan
- Fountain Hill
- Marvine
Meals will be charged to each participating student’s cafeteria account. Charging to sibling accounts is not permitted. The student’s ID card must be presented to the cashier for checkout. Cash will not be accepted at meal distribution. Student accounts will be charged as follows:
Elementary Paid:
Breakfast: $1.75 per meal
Lunch: $2.65 per meal
Secondary Paid:
Breakfast: $1.85 per meal
Lunch: $2.85 per meal
Reduced:
Breakfast: $0.30 per meal
Lunch: $0.40 per meal
One breakfast and one lunch meal will be charged to each participating student’s account on the day of distribution. Following meal distribution, a Dining Services team member will run the Patron Participation Report in PrimeroEdge for a list of students that received meals at that site. Based on the first letter of the student’s last name, a breakfast and lunch meal will be charged to the student’s account on both Tuesday and Thursday or both Wednesday and Friday.
Will meals be distributed to students on the e-Classroom schedule (5 @ Home)?
Yes. Breakfast and lunch meal kits for BASD e-Classroom students will be available for order through a Google form posted on the Dining Services website. Orders must be placed by 8pm the Sunday before distribution. Students/families can select to order meals for particular days of the week or for the entire school week.
Meals ordered through the Google form will be available for pickup at Northeast Middle School between 10:00am and 11:30am on Mondays excluding Mondays that are closed for in service or holidays.
Meals will be charged to each participating student’s cafeteria account. Charging to sibling accounts is not permitted. The student’s ID card must be presented to the cashier for checkout. Cash will not be accepted at meal distribution. Student accounts will be charged as follows:
Elementary Paid:
Breakfast: $1.75 per meal
Lunch: $2.65 per meal
Secondary Paid:
Breakfast: $1.85 per meal
Lunch: $2.85 per meal
Reduced:
Breakfast: $0.30 per meal
Lunch: $0.40 per meal
One breakfast and one lunch meal will be charged to each participating student’s account on the day of distribution. Following meal distribution, a Dining Services team member will run the Patron Participation Report in PrimeroEdge for a list of students that received meals at that site. Based on the first letter of the student’s last name, a breakfast and lunch meal will be charged to the student’s account on both Tuesday and Thursday or both Wednesday and Friday.
For BASD e-Classroom students, the number of breakfast and lunch meals ordered will be charged to their student cafeteria account.
Masks & Personal Equipment
Is my child required to wear a mask to attend school?
Yes. All BASD students are required to wear a mask when at school on school property. This can be a disposable mask, cloth mask, or gaiter mask pulled up all the way over the mouth and nose. It must be form-fitting, covering the mouth and nose. Students will not be permitted into school without wearing a mask that meets these requirements.
Why are masks required for children?
Masks will be required when students are traveling on the bus, upon arrival and dismissal, when traveling in the halls, and in the classroom (a medical excuse is the exception). Students will remove masks for water breaks, snack breaks, and lunchtime while maintaining social distancing of 6 feet or more. The CDC site repeatedly encourages the use of cloth face coverings so that surgical masks and N-95s can be reserved for medical professionals such as our school nurses to conserve on PPE shortages. While cloth face coverings don’t offer the same type of protection as medical grade masks, they are recommended as they do provide a level of protection for the wearer. Cotton that is tightly woven is a very good choice, should be at least two layers thick, provide breathability, and should fit snugly yet comfortably against the side of the face. They should be secured with ties or ear loops and be washable and machine dried without damage or change to shape.
What if my child does not have a mask at arrival?
Your child’s administrator will assist them prior to entering the school building.
What if a child refuses to wear a mask?
Your child’s administrator will assist them immediately.
Are there any requirements for cloth masks?
Yes. According to CDC guidelines, a cloth mask must be form-fitting covering the mouth and nose, elastic around the ear or behind the head, and be secured under the chin. This can be a disposable mask, cloth mask, or gaiter mask pulled up all the way over the mouth and nose.
Are there any masks which are not permitted?
Yes. Bandanas or other cloth which does not comply with the above rules will not be permitted. The BASD reserved the right to adjust this requirement as new research may adjust the requirements for in-school masks.
Are there any rules regarding what is on the mask?
Yes. The mask should comply with the BASD dress code. Students with masks with inappropriate text or images will be required to wear a different mask that conforms with the school dress code or use an issued mask by administration.
Are there times when my child will not wear a mask?
Yes. Your child will not wear their mask when they are eating their breakfast or lunch. In addition, students will be provided with brief mask breaks in classes at the teacher’s discretion and during physical education activities when outside and social distancing from other students.
What if my child has a problem with their mask during the school day?
Your child should speak with their teacher immediately for help. Their guidance counselor and administrator will assist them with a replacement.
Does my child need to do anything special with their cloth mask?
Yes. If your child is using a cloth mask, they should wash and clean it every night.
Can students carry hand sanitizer?
Yes. Students may carry and use personal hand sanitizer with them in their bookbags. A small 2-3oz bottle is enough. Students may not carry pump-style or large containers. Personal sanitizer bottles are subject to review by administration. Sanitizer should not be shared between students.
Are there hand sanitizer stations in the school?
Yes. Sanitizer stations are located in high-use areas of the school (lobby, cafeteria, etc.).
Can students carry a water bottle?
Yes. Students may carry and use their own personal water bottle for use during the school day. The water bottle should have their name on it in case it is lost. This bottle may not be made of glass. Water bottles are subject to review by administration.
Where can my child fill up their water bottle?
A student’s personal labeled water bottles may be filled at the water fountains or at a classroom sink. Students should bring their water bottle filled when arriving at school.
BASD Transportation
When will buses be cleaned?
Buses will be cleaned and sanitized twice daily – once after delivery of all students to school in the morning and again in the afternoon after returning all students home. High touch points in the entry stepwell will be cleaned and sanitized upon arrival at each school drop off location. All cleaning and sanitizing will be conducted using products that meet the CDC and EPA requirements for COVID-19. If a student or staff member tests positive for COVID-19, the affected vehicle will be aired out for twenty-four hours or as long as possible after transporting the student or staff member who tests positive for COVID-19 and cleaned and sanitized.
Will students and drivers wear masks?
Yes. All students riding BASD School District transportation are required to wear face coverings. All bus drivers, vehicle drivers, and transportation assistants are required to wear face coverings.
How many students can ride on a bus?
There will be no more than 2 students per seat. Students from the same household will sit together when practical. Students who have complex medical or behavioral needs that prevent them from wearing face coverings will be addressed on a case-by-case basis.
Will student temperatures be taken by drivers?
No. Symptom screening will be done by all parents/guardians at home each morning before boarding the school bus.
Arrival
What will arrival look like?
Arrival will look normal to students arriving for school for 8:05am. We strongly encourage students to walk & ride bikes if they are close to school. Bikes need to be locked up outside. Parents can still drop off in our Main Lot, entering and leaving via 9th Avenue. Parents/Guardians should not use the Office Lot, unless a child is on crutches. Busses will use the bus lane and depart via 10th Ave. Students must have a mask on when arriving on campus.
Do I have to pull into the Main Parking Lot to drop off my child?
No. We strongly encourage parents/guardians to drop their children off at the Rose Garden (in the drop off area) or about a block away from school to give students the opportunity to walk to school with friends and establish strong skills for middle school. There are crossing guards at 8th Avenue and 10th Avenue on West Union Blvd. Please DO NOT use the Office Parking Lot!
Where will students gather before coming into the school?
Students stay outside in all weather unless it is severe rain or below freezing weather. 6th graders will gather at the Gymnasium doors. 7th grade will gather at the Main Entrance doors. 8th graders will gather on the turf field bleachers, then enter the Gymnasium doors once 6th grade is clear. Teacher supervision of these areas begins at 7:55am.
What happens on rainy days or severe cold days?
If the weather is a light rain, students will still stay outside with umbrellas and raincoats. Dr. Mayes will announce on BASD App, social media, and email when students would come into the school in inclement weather. 7th grade will enter through the Auditorium doors and sit in the Auditorium. 6th & 8th graders will enter through the Gymnasium doors and sit in the bleachers as directed by teachers. This will begin at 7:55am.
When can my child eat breakfast?
Breakfast is served in the cafeteria from 7:45am to 8:00am. The doors are only open from 7:45am-7:55am. Once students enter the Main Entrance, they must stay inside. Students are supervised by teachers during breakfast. Students may purchase breakfast or eat their own breakfast inside the cafeteria.
Will student temperatures be screened at school?
No. Temperature screening will not be required upon entrance to school for students. Symptom screening will be done by all parents/guardians at home each morning before the school day. Children with symptoms shall not be sent on a bus or brought to school.
Will visitors be permitted?
The BASD will limit non-essential visitors and volunteers. Appointments for all essential meetings are required. All essential visitors are required to comply with all school district screening and monitoring processes.
Will visitors be screened before entry?
Visitors will call the front office before entering the building. Screening of symptoms of illness will be required for staff and visitors prior to entering the school. Health screening required prior to entry.
Will face coverings be required for all visitors?
Yes. Face coverings will be required for all visitors entering the building and while visiting the building in accordance with the orders set forth by the Commonwealth. Symptomatic or sick staff, students and visitors will not be permitted to enter the school.
Dismissal
What will dismissal look like?
Dismissal will look normal to students departing school. All bus students will be dismissed from classes at 3:05pm. Walkers/riders/bikers will be dismissed at 3:10pm once busses are leaving the school property. This will still leave enough time for families leaving Nitschmann to pick up elementary age students. Students are expected to leave campus immediately after dismissal.
Extracurricular Activities & Sports
When will extracurricular activities begin?
Most extracurricular activities are typically held during the school day. However, some activities, such as band/orchestra/jazz band/chorus/sports may be held before or after school. Please watch the Sunday email for start times for these activities. These are slated to begin in mid-September, 2020.
Can my child participate in extracurricular activities?
Yes. Students in hybrid schedules and e-Classroom students may participate in before or after school activities. Students must be in good academic standing and are subject to review by the building administrators. Please watch the Sunday email for start times for these activities. These are slated to begin in mid-September, 2020.
Can my 6th grader participate in interscholastic sports?
No. Only students in 7th and 8th grades by PA law may participate. However, we do hold several intramural sports for all students in all grade levels throughout the year. Please watch the Sunday email for start times for these activities.
When will instrumental music students get their lessons?
Instrumental music lessons will be held by Mr. Zettlemoyer through Zoom on the days students are @ Home so they do not miss the @ School instruction.
COVID-19 Outbreaks, Notification, & Health Services
Did the BASD prepare a plan for the reopening of schools?
Yes. You can find it at this link.
What are the screening procedures for families at home?
Parents/guardians are expected to screen their children before leaving home. Parents should use the screening questionnaire on the BASD website at this link.
What preventive cleaning practices will be in place?
In addition to regular nightly cleaning and disinfection conducted in schools, high-touch surfaces will be cleaned and/or disinfected throughout the day. High touch surfaces include bathroom surfaces, water fountains, door handles, light switches and student desks. Cleaning/disinfecting of bathrooms will occur once during the day and again after working hours. Bathrooms will be stocked with hand soap, paper towels and no-touch trash cans. If an individual(s) tests positive for COVID-19, the affected area of the building will be closed for 24 hours. If 24 hours is not feasible, the area will be closed for as long as possible before cleaning and disinfecting the area to minimize potential for exposure to respiratory droplets. Open outside doors and windows to increase air circulation in the area.
Will students be allowed to use water fountains?
Students are encouraged to bring personal, labeled water bottles/drinking vessels from home. Water fountains will be available for use and cleaned and sanitized throughout the day as a high touch surface.
Will students be able to use hand sanitizer?
Washing hands with soap and water is the best defense against the spread of communicable diseases. Where soap and water are not available, hand sanitizer with at least 60% isopropyl alcohol is an acceptable alternative. Hand sanitizer will be available throughout the school in school common areas and for outdoor activities.
How will fresh air be circulated indoors?
The HVAC system will be modified to increase ventilation in all classrooms and common areas. We have the newest system in the district and it works extremely well.
What products will be used to clean?
Cleaning and disinfecting will be performed using chemicals approved by the EPA as effective against coronavirus. EPA approved products will be used in accordance with labeling requirements and staff will be trained on how to appropriately use these products.
How will students and staff be reminded to follow safe practices?
Signage, in English and Spanish, will be placed at the entrance to the school’s main office to communicate how to stop the spread of the disease and hours of operation, as well as CDC signage in English and Spanish to communicate preventative measures (including staying home when sick), good hygiene, and social distancing for each building.Physical guides, such as tape on floors/sidewalks, and signs on walls will be placed to ensure staff and students remain at least 6 feet apart when feasible. Students and staff will be educated on handwashing, proper use of PPE, Bloodborne Pathogens, Social distancing, COVID-19 Information, and pre-screening for symptoms of COVID-19.
What social distancing protocols will be in place in BASD buildings?
Arrival & departure procedures for each specific building will be constructed in a way that adheres to social distancing guidelines. Variable locations for arrival and dismissal of students may be utilized to encourage social distancing. Encourage school drop-off, walking, and biking to school. Classroom seating/desks shall be at least 6 feet apart when feasible. Use rows all facing the same direction for seating configurations of desks and work areas, when feasible. If not feasible, consider staggered or diagonal seating at shared tables to avoid “across the table” seating. Provide assigned seating in classroom and cohort students throughout the day, every day when possible. Limit high-traffic, high-volume hallway use to increase social distancing. Limit the use of congregate settings. Limit the sharing of materials among students. Continue with physical education activities as long as those activities limit physical contact and touching. Have class outdoors as much as practicable. Limit field trips to virtual, inter-group activities and extracurricular activities to follow the masking and social distance guidelines, through at least November/December.
Who is monitoring the BASD’s COVID-19 exposure rate and performing contact tracing?
The BASD is working directly with the Bethlehem Health Bureau. The Bethlehem Health Bureau has provided the BASD with contact tracers on-site in the district to coordinate the BASD response.
What happens if a student or staff member is identified with COVID-19?
The Bethlehem Health Bureau will take charge of the response, contact tracing, and notification of the BASD of an identified case in the district. The BASD will then notify all parents via email first at the school where the case has occurred. Then, the district will post the information on the BASD website and social media sites.
If there is a confirmed positive case of a student or staff member, do we have to shut down the classroom and/or the school?
No. The preponderance of current evidence continues to suggest that children are less likely to be infected, less likely to have severe symptoms, and are at lower risk of spreading the disease to others. As COVID-19 will likely be with us for an extended period of time, and given that all school districts will almost certainly have cases, we want schools to begin treating it similarly to the way we have successfully handled other communicable diseases in our schools, including pertussis (whooping cough), measles, strep throat, mumps, influenza, and meningitis. It is our strong intention to keep all classrooms, schools, and districts open in the event of confirmed cases of COVID-19. One closure decision can lead to a potentially crippling, and precedent setting, domino effect of closures throughout the school district and in other districts. We will work in conjunction with the principal, superintendent, City of Bethlehem Health Bureau, and the BASD Pandemic Team on the next steps for efforts to continue school/classroom activities without sending all contacts home. Depending on the situation, this may involve simply conducting enhanced surveillance for signs and symptoms and increasing sanitation and hygiene in the affected areas. Multiple cases may involve modifications to social distancing or mask usage.
If a student or staff member is confirmed positive, what are the steps to follow?
The City of Bethlehem Health Bureau shall be notified immediately, if not already made aware. As part of all COVID-19 case investigations, information will be quickly obtained from the student or staff member as to their close contacts since the onset of their symptoms. The actual nature of the contacts will be explored in detail, and multiple variables (i.e. was the case symptomatic during school or did the case only develop illness at home) will be considered. We will provide information to assist our contact tracing efforts as much as possible. Once the information has been gathered, students and staff considered close contacts to the case (if any) will be notified of their exposure, using as little identifying information about the case as possible. Any mitigation steps will then be evaluated by the school and the Bethlehem Health Bureau.
What happens if a student or teacher becomes symptomatic during school hours?
First, the student or teacher should leave the classroom immediately, put on a mask, and report to the nurse’s office. The nurse should fully assess the student/teacher, including a temperature check and questions about any pre-existing conditions that may explain the symptoms. As the situation warrants, the nurse will contact a parent/guardian to arrange for transportation off-site. Staff and students with elevated temperatures will likely leave the building regardless of cause. The student or teacher’s desk area should be sanitized prior to further usage. The student/teacher will be referred to their primary provider for follow up. The school should continue to operate as normally as possible until additional information becomes available on the student or teacher’s status. There are many common reasons other than COVID-19 that could explain someone not feeling well at any particular time. Notifications would not be warranted in the absence of further details.
What if my child has allergies or another chronic medical condition that often causes some of these same symptoms?
Parents should communicate ahead of time (if possible) with the school nurse and alert them to these conditions, so that a plan is in place in the event symptoms develop during school. For example, in order to differentiate between asthma and COVID-19 related shortness of breath, when a student uses his/her inhaler, the symptoms should improve as expected. Or a student with chronic allergies having a mild cough and runny nose whose symptoms may be explained through clear improvement with an antihistamine.
What is the protocol for a student, athlete or staff member to return to school after being sent home with symptoms?
Individual(s) should be tested for COVID-19. If the test is negative, return to school 3 days after symptoms are no longer present. If the test is positive, individual(s) may return after 24 hours with no fever and no fever reducing medications and Improvement in symptoms, and 10 days since symptoms first appeared. If an individual is not tested, return to school is permitted when they are fever free (without medication) and symptom free for 3 days.
What is the protocol for a student, athlete or staff member to return to school after testing positive?
After a positive test, a symptomatic student or staff member can return after 24 hours with no fever and no fever reducing medications and improvement in symptoms and 10 days since symptoms first appeared.
What if a student or staff member comes in close contact with a symptomatic COVID household member?
The individual student/staff member should be tested for COVID-19. If the test result is negative, they may return to school 14 days after last exposure to the person with COVID and symptoms have resolved. If the test is positive, they may return after 24 hours with no fever and no fever reducing medications and improvement in symptoms and 10 days since symptoms first appeared.
What if a student or staff member comes in close contact with an asymptomatic COVID household member?
The individual may return 14 days after last exposure to the person with COVID-19. If symptoms develop during the 14 days, the individual student/staff member should be tested for COVID-19. If the test result is negative, they may return to school 14 days after last exposure to the person with COVID and symptoms have resolved. If the test is positive, they may return after 24 hours with no fever and no fever reducing medications and improvement in symptoms and 10 days since symptoms first appeared.
Where will students wait to be picked up when sent home from the School Nurse?
Students will be isolated and will wait to be picked up by an adult. When the adult arrives, the student will be sent out to the Main Entrance for pickup.
Can my child contact me on their cell phone to pick them up?
No. A child contacting their parent/guardian without notification of the School Nurse is a violation of the BASD Framework for Citizenship. Students must go to the School Nurse to be evaluated. The School Nurse will contact the parent/guardian.
Can my child carry their cell phone with them during the school day?
Yes. However, the phone may not be used without teacher permission during the school day. If a child uses their cell phone during the school day, they will speak with their teacher and/or the assistant principal. Cell phones should be kept turned off and in backpacks during the school day.